Don't have a lot of time in the morning? This short 18-minute class is a quick way to prepare your body, mind, and soul for the day through exercise and prayer. You will begin Sunrise Stretch in a cross-legged seated position, working on your breath and thanking God for the gift of today. Through a series of twists, side bends, arm circles, and more, you will loosen up your neck, shoulders, back, and hips. By the end of the workout, you will feel accomplished and ready to take on the day with God in your heart.
This Very Moment, Stanton Lanier; Introit Requiem, The Norbertine Fathers of St. Michael's Abbey
The classes in this series are designed to help your body release tension and restore balance in the nervous system. Different props are used to further allow the body to relax and unwind. This combination supports healing and recovery in the body as you pray with the Psalms, surrendering it all to the Divine Physician. Not only can it be helpful for those experiencing stress and anxiety, but also for those with adrenal fatigue, chronic fatigue, and fibromyalgia (of course, always check with your doctor first). Start with Release, Restore & Recover #1, and work your way through the videos as you feel you are able. To learn more about Christian meditation, check out our 3-series blog, Christian Meditation: A Basic Guide.
Psalm 51
The exercises in this class are used to align, strengthen, and promote flexility in the body. The body’s range of motion is worked by working the spine in all planes of movement as well as hip ROM, balance work, and more. You will leave the class felling more at peace and refreshed. The meditation focuses on The Kingdom of God.
Holy Family School of Faith, Rosary Meditation for January 13, 2022, The Kingdom of God. Used with permission.
The Nobertine Fathers of St. Michael's Abbey (www.stmichaelsabbey.com)
Wind down at the end of the day with Night Prayers. The slow, soothing moves and brief daily examen in this class will help you release any physical, emotional, and mental tension and stress you may have been carrying with you throughout the day—filling your body and soul with a sense of peace. By the end of this 25-minute class, your entire being will feel relaxed and prepared for a restful night sleep in God's loving care.
Dawn and Dusk Take Turns Calling, Stanton Lanier; Ave Maria, Benedictines of Mary, Queen of the Apostles
This class is all about taking the time to care for your joints so that you move better, as well as helping the lymphatic system flow efficiently. Did you know that lymph fluid relies on you to move so that it can do its job of removing waste from the body? What are you waiting for? Press “start” to promote better movement and feel great! The meditation will have you thinking about how the world sees you.
Fr. Ben O’Cinnsealaigh, Pastor of Our Lady of Victory Parish, Cincinnati, OH, Inspiration for the week of July 12, 2021
If you want to build strength, working your core is essential! Join Rachel for this 10-minute core workout that works not only your abs, but all of the muscles in the trunk. Exercises include Hands and Knees with Leg Lifts, Side Balance lift, Kneeling Balance, and more. Ready to get started?
Have you ever wondered what happens to emotions that we try to repress? Very often, those unwanted feelings get stored in our bodies. This 20-minute Gentle class will not only help you release built-up stress in your shoulders, back, and hips, but also calm your mind. You will begin Theology of the Body: Stress Relief lying on your back, working on your breath and focusing on the blessings in your life. As you slowly move through the class, you will perform exercises on the mat that gently stretch and strengthen all the muscles in your body. To work a little harder, keep your core contracted and really engage your muscles as your work. The Scriptures and meditation paint a beautiful picture of God's plan of spousal unity and its relationship to the Trinity.Like this class? You will love the other videos in the Theology of the Body Series. Experience them all with 21 Days to Greatness, a 3-week plan that will help you become all God created you to be.
Based on St. John Paul II's Theology of the Body
Composed by Jennifer Dirkes, www.jenniferdirkes.com; Anima mea Antiphon, Norbertine Fathers of St. Michael's Abbey
Lower your current stress level and learn five ways to manage your everyday worries and anxieties with Let Go, Let God. As you progress through this peaceful 23-minute class, deep breathing and gentle stretches will help you release tension in your neck, shoulders, back, and hips. Although subtle, the strengthening movements in this workout target the muscles in your back, core, and quads. The Scriptures and meditations will help you place your trust in God and focus on the present moment.
Based on content from Dynamic Catholic
Peace, Stanton Lanier; Agnus Dei, The Norbertine Fathers of St. Michael's Abbey
The busyness of life is a distraction from what really matters. Slower moving gentle Pietra Fitness classes can help us to focus on the profound reality of God’s love for us and His presence in our daily lives. Join Jessica in this restorative class that moves at a pace that leaves room for grace! The Scripture and meditation will have you contemplating the feminine gift of hospitality.
Excerpt from Manual for Women, Danielle Bean (TAN). Used with permission.
The Nobertine Fathers of St. Michael's Abbey (www.stmichaelsabbey.com)
The classes in this series are designed to help your body release tension and restore balance in the nervous system. Different props are used to further allow the body to relax and unwind. This combination supports healing and recovery in the body as you pray with the Psalms, surrendering it all to the Divine Physician. Not only can it be helpful for those experiencing stress and anxiety, but also for those with adrenal fatigue, chronic fatigue, and fibromyalgia (of course, always check with your doctor first). Start with Release, Restore & Recover #1, and work your way through the videos as you feel you are able. To learn more about Christian meditation, check out our 3-series blog, Christian Meditation: A Basic Guide.
Psalm 30
The Nobertine Fathers of St. Michael's Abbey
Are you looking for a relaxing stretch with a focus on the core? Then Gentle Core is for you. Join Betsy as she takes you through a series of simple stretches interspersed with core work and cues to engage the core even as you stretch. The prayers and Scripture will have you reflecting on the personal love of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus.
Excerpt from In Conversation with God, Francis Fernandez (Scepter Press)
The Nobertine Fathers of St. Michael's Abbey (www.stmichaelsabbey.com)
The classes in this series are designed to help your body release tension and restore balance in the nervous system. Different props are used to further allow the body to relax and unwind. This combination supports healing and recovery in the body as you pray with the Psalms, surrendering it all to the Divine Physician. Not only can it be helpful for those experiencing stress and anxiety, but also for those with adrenal fatigue, chronic fatigue, and fibromyalgia (of course, always check with your doctor first). Start with Release, Restore & Recover #1, and work your way through the videos as you feel you are able. To learn more about Christian meditation, check out our 3-series blog, Christian Meditation: A Basic Guide.
Psalm 80
The Nobertine Fathers of St. Michael's Abbey (www.stmichaelsabbey.com)
Your spine is built for mobility and movement, but long hours of sitting or maybe working out without stretching can cause our muscles and connective tissue to get tight. The risk for injury and pain increases the tighter we become. Spinal Agility to the rescue! Jhoe will move you through exercises that will help your spine stay agile from the neck and upper shoulders to the low back. Doing this class often will help you to stay flexible and move comfortably. The meditation focuses on Our Lord as our secure dwelling place.
Clare Schiller, Foundation 3 Pietra Fitness Instructor
The Nobertine Fathers of St. Michael's Abbey (www.stmichaelsabbey.com)
Tight hips are extremely common these days, which can contribute to issues throughout the body, like low back pain and knee issues. This class will take you through a series of Lunges and hip stretches that will help you to feel agile and light on your feet. The meditation will have you thinking about redemptive suffering with St. Teresa of Kolkata as your coach.
Jocelyne DeGroot, Foundation 1 Pietra Fitness Instructor
The Nobertine Fathers of St. Michael's Abbey (www.stmichaelsabbey.com)
Does your body feel a little stiff when you wake up in the morning? From your neck and your chest to your back and hamstrings, Morning Stretch will loosen up your muscles—giving your entire body a much-needed stretch. You will begin this 21-minute class in a comfortable cross-legged seated position, working on your breath and being grateful to God for the gift of another day. As you flow through low lunges, modified side planks, half backbends, and other postures and exercises that lengthen your muscles, you will pause to meditate on a prayer that St. Francis used to praise God. By the time you finish this workout, you will be moving easier and poised to praise God with your entire being throughout the day.
Breathe, Stanton Lanier; Grandual Si Ambulem, The Norbertine Fathers of St. Michael's Abbey
The classes in this series are designed to help your body release tension and restore balance in the nervous system. Different props are used to further allow the body to relax and unwind. This combination supports healing and recovery in the body as you pray with the Psalms, surrendering it all to the Divine Physician. Not only can it be helpful for those experiencing stress and anxiety, but also for those with adrenal fatigue, chronic fatigue, and fibromyalgia (of course, always check with your doctor first). Start with Release, Restore & Recover #1, and work your way through the videos as you feel you are able. To learn more about Christian meditation, check out our 3-series blog, Christian Meditation: A Basic Guide.
Psalm 71
The Nobertine Fathers of St. Michael's Abbey
The classes in this series are designed to help your body release tension and restore balance in the nervous system. Different props are used to further allow the body to relax and unwind. This combination supports healing and recovery in the body as you pray with the Psalms, surrendering it all to the Divine Physician. Not only can it be helpful for those experiencing stress and anxiety, but also for those with adrenal fatigue, chronic fatigue, and fibromyalgia (of course, always check with your doctor first). Start with Release, Restore & Recover #1, and work your way through the videos as you feel you are able. To learn more about Christian meditation, check out our 3-series blog, Christian Meditation: A Basic Guide.
Psalm 147
The Nobertine Fathers of St. Michael's Abbey
There can be many causes of lower back pain, but very often, it is the result of our lifestyles. Have no fear! Incorporating certain exercises into your routine can help improve symptoms, lessen pain, and counterbalance a sedentary style of living. Fiona will help you stretch and strengthen the muscles that support the spine, resulting in better posture and movement. The meditation will have you contemplating union with Christ in suffering, with St. John Vianny as your mentor.
Jocelyne DeGroot, Foundation 1 Pietra Fitness Instructor
The Nobertine Fathers of St. Michael's Abbey (www.stmichaelsabbey.com)
This gentle spine mobility class is perfect for those who would like a restful start to your day or if you would like a low impact routine that prepares your spine to get going for whatever activities you have planned. The meditation will help you to focus on St. Joseph.
Holy Family School of Faith, Daily Rosary podcast, St. Joseph’s Place, March 4, 2021.
The Nobertine Fathers of St. Michael's Abbey (www.stmichaelsabbey.com)
A mix of dynamic core stabilizing exercises using planks, squats, standing side crunches, and Pike pushups with shoulder taps. A light weight is optional. Good for the beginner to intermediate.
The Nobertine Fathers of St. Michael's Abbey (www.stmichaelsabbey.com)
Do you have poor posture, tightness or soreness in your lower back or hips, or pain in your neck or glutes? Tight hip flexors may be the source of your discomfort—and Lent: Hip Strengthener can provide relief. Your hip flexors allow you to move (or flex) your leg or knee up toward your torso, as well as bend your torso forward at your hip. If you sit for long periods of time or run a lot, some of the muscles in your hip flexors tend to shorten and become restricted. Exercises that stretch and strengthen not only your hip flexors but also your back, glutes, and core are essential for loosening your muscles, increasing your range of motion, improving your posture, and preventing injuries. That's why this 25-minute workout includes leg lifts, back-bends, low lunges, hip rolls, bends and twists, hip releases, and inner thigh stretches. As with all Pietra Fitness classes, this Gentle workout will also calm your mind and nervous system with deep breathing, and it will enrich your soul with Scriptures and meditations that invite you to reflect on the manner in which you carry the little crosses that come your way each day.
Excerpt from In Conversation with God, Francis Fernandez, (Scepter Press)
Lush Meadows, Heart and Soul by Stanton Lanier, Dum Fabricator, The Norbertine Fathers of St. Michael's Abbey (stmichaelsabbey.com)
When your back muscles are tight or weak, everyday movements can be difficult and painful. Increase your range of motion and safely stretch and strengthen not only your back but also your shoulders with Back BeneFIT. This 30-minute class is done entirely on the floor and incorporates a series of twists, bends, chest openers, forward folds, and other gentle movements that benefit your entire core. The Scriptures and meditations remind you that God always has your back—He will never let you down when you place your hope and confidence in Him alone.
Sanctus, The Norbertine Fathers of St. Michael's Abbey
Even the simplest every day movements require leg strength. Incorporating this quick 10-minute leg workout will help you to achieve that! Rachel will work all the major muscle groups of the legs with squats, fire hydrants, leg pulses, inner thigh leg lifts, and more.
Begin your 9-day journey to peace with this slow, steady, and mindful 39-minute workout. Ease into the class by coming into a comfortable cross-legged seated position where you will focus on your breath, thoughts of gratitude, and being present to God. Tekla's calm, gentle voice will lead you through a series of feel-good stretches to warm up your body and release any tension you may be holding in your neck or back. Then you'll transition to a plank and chest lift series to work your entire core, shoulders, chest, and glutes. Build strength in your legs with side lunges, Lunge 2, reverse Lunge 2, side reach, calf raises, and a full squat. As you lie in reclined inner thigh stretch for the long hold, allow the words of the Surrender Novena prayer to sink into your heart, mind, and soul. The Scriptures throughout the class will awaken in you a spirit of trust in God, and the meditation during the final resting pose will invite you to place your anxiety and stress in Jesus' loving arms.
Surrender Novena Day 1
Surrender, J'abandonne tout, Alles überlasse ich Jesus, by Francesca LaRosa (www.francescalarosa.com), Resurrexi-Introit, by The Nobertine Fathers of St. Michael's Abbey (www.stmichaelsabbey.com)
This short, gentle core workout can help even the beginner build the core fitness that is necessary for everyday movement. No need for equipment besides your mat! These exercises are designed to strengthen core muscles as well as increase flexibility.
Poor posture is a common problem for many people, but can be easily corrected.Not only does bad posture not look good, but can also cause other health problems. Would you like to be one of those people who stand in perfect alignment, maintaining the spine’s natural curves? Practicing Live from Home: Posture Support can be a great aid to strengthening your core and glutes that will aid in correcting a slouching posture. The meditation will have you contemplating God as your focal point.
Holy Family School of Faith, Rosary Meditation for August 13, 2021, Fidelity, Freedom, Bread. Used with permission.
The Nobertine Fathers of St. Michael's Abbey
Are you in need of a workout that helps you recover from a job that has you sitting all day at a computer or on the phone? Then Work Day Recovery is for you! Jill takes you through poses that not only help tight hips, but opens the chest and restores the shoulders. The meditation helps you to reflect on the fact that you are the apple of God’s eyes. Can you say ahhhhhhhh?
Holy Family School of Faith, 30 Days to Deeper Prayer. Volume 3, Day 3, The Apple of His Eye.. (Used with permission)
The Nobertine Fathers of St. Michael's Abbey (www.stmichaelsabbey.com)
This gentle, full body, low impact class promotes increased mobility, flexibility, and relaxation. The class, along with the peaceful music will leave you feeling balanced, soothed, at peace while the prayers focus on the journey from vocal prayer to Christian meditation.
Holy Family School of Faith, Rosary Meditation for March 6, 2021, The National Park of the Soul. Used with permission.
The Nobertine Fathers of St. Michael's Abbey (www.stmichaelsabbey.com)
This 10-minute class uses light weights for your arms and shoulders (suggestions: 0 - 5 lbs). You can start with no weights and work up, or even incorporate heavier weights if you have been doing resistance training for a while. Betsy stretches with you at the end, but try adding a Pietra Fitness class in to recover well. Once you feel comfortable with this class, try the intermediate class.
Is your posture suffering from long hours hunched over at a desk? Love Your Body has the stretching and strengthening moves that will not only open up your chest to counteract rounded shoulders but also rejuvenate your entire being. Your body is a gift, and when you take time to nourish your body with the exercises in this class, you will feel better and move better. The Scriptures and mediations in this 32-minute workout invite you to open your heart to God, who is the source of strength, joy, peace, and love.
Excerpt from In Conversation with God, Francis Fernandez (Scepter Press)
Dominabitur-Gradual Feast of Christ the King, The Norbertine Fathers of St. Michael's Abbey
A great cardio workout for beginners that will help you to get your heart rate up with low impact options. This class uses traditional kickboxing punches and kicks for a fun workout. No equipment is needed for this class.
This class will move your whole body through a series of exercises that will have you standing, sitting, lying on your stomach, and lying on your back, all while moving gently, intentionally, and calmly. This allows you to work out while still being able to focus on the meditation on love. You will leave feeling relaxed and totally loved by God!
Fr. Ben O’Cinnsealaigh, Pastor of Our Lady of Victory Parish, Cincinnati, OH, for the week of October 31, 2021. Used with permission.
The Nobertine Fathers of St. Michael's Abbey
The best remedy to staying injury free is to have a consistent program of stretching after your sport or practice. Stretching after your game or workout can help increase your flexibility and range of motion, reduce the risk of injury, decrease muscle tension and stress in your body, and promote increased circulation. It can even help improve your performance the next time you play. The extra time you spend stretching are well worth it; your body will thank you!
After the Warmup that includes lat pulls with knee lifts, Arch & Rounds, and Kneeling Balance, Rachel will work you out with cardio cross punches, lunges, cardio front kicks, chest presses, Half Backbends, squats, and more. Light weights are used, but feel free to use cans, water bottles, or nothing at all!
Are you feeling stress or anxious and looking for a way to relax? Or do you just want to unwind? Deep breathing is one of the best ways to lower stress in the body. It is a gift from God, and it is free! Join Jill for an 11-minute video that will have you at ease and calm in no time! No need for music here, the sound of the waves are great for activating your parasympathetic nervous system helping you to breathe easy.
Are you ready for some “aaahhh” time? By the end of this 34-minute Gentle Level class, you will feel relaxed, refreshed, renewed, and, depending on what time of day you do it, either more poised to focus on your tasks for the day or better prepared to enter a peaceful night’s sleep. This class takes place on the mat without any standing postures or prone postures. You will begin seated for about 4 minutes of relaxing the body through deep-breathing and relaxing the mind with soothing thoughts of gratitude and God’s love for you. After warming up with safe and gentle neck stretches, side bends, and forward folds, you will come to your hands and knees for gentle core work, including leg lifts. You will strengthen your back muscles as you extend your spine while on your knees, followed by gentle twists and a shoulder stretch. When you come to a supine position, you will work multiple muscle groups as you lift and lower your hips, adding in an optional arm movement as well. As you relax into your reclined inner thigh stretch for your long hold, you will listen to the meditation on “Preparing for the Feast.” The prayers and meditation focus on God’s generous invitation to the wedding feast in Heaven and how we respond to that invitation.
Fr. Ben O’Cinnsealaigh, Pastor of Our Lady of Victory Parish, Cincinnati, OH, for the week of Oct. 11, 2020
The Nobertine Fathers of St. Michael's Abbey (www.stmichaelsabbey.com)
Strengthen your arms and shoulders without any extra props or weights with this short, body weight class. Body weight exercises boost your fitness, metabolism and endurance.
Live! from Home: Gentle Core n’ More is a 34-minute class done strictly on the mat. There are no standing exercises, making it easier for those who have a hard time with more active transitions. In this class, you will perform a variety of exercises for your lower body, including the core muscles. In the warmup, you will wake up the core and obliques, as well as the hamstrings. In the Workout, you will roll on to your side for more oblique work, then to your stomach for Forearm Chest Lifts and Leg Kicks. Shift back to Rock, up to Hands and Knees for Arch & Round, Heel Sit, and then Seated Forward Fold with an added fun twist. Relax in the Long Hold in Reclined Inner Thigh Stretch. The prayers for today will focus on the fact that it is “Never too late with God”.
Fr. Ben O’Cinnsealaigh, Pastor of Our Lady of Victory Parish, Cincinnati, OH, Fr. Ben’s Column, Sept. 27, 2020. Used with permission.
Music from Keys of Peace by Francesca LaRosa (www.francescalarosa.com), The Nobertine Fathers of St. Michael's Abbey (www.stmichaelsabbey.com)
Join us in this Beginner, 22-minute Total Body Workout. You will be doing 40 seconds of work and 20 seconds of walking or resting. Exercises Include: Pushups, Squats, Bicep curls, Arabesque, and Rows. You will leave this class feeling amazing and strong!
Take a step back from the physical, mental, and emotional demands of your everyday life with Restore Your Temple. Beginning with the peaceful pace, movements, and music in the warm-up, this 50-minute restorative workout will help you reduce stress, calm your mind, and relax your body. The Scriptures and meditation will remind you that you are a temple of the Holy Spirit and invite you to ask Jesus to restore any areas of your being that are in need of repair. Whether you are a new to Pietra Fitness or a long-time practitioner, the floor work, standing exercises, and slow transitions in Restore Your Temple will gently improve your strength, flexibility, and balance.
Looking for a slow-paced workout with soothing music, gentle stretches, and ways to modify each posture to fit your skill level and flexibility? Your Rhythm has all that and more. You will begin this very gentle 28-minute class sitting comfortably on your mat, focusing on your breath and calling to mind the things you are grateful for. Warm up with easy twists, forward folds, shoulder rolls, and a triceps stretch to loosen up your spine, stretch your hips and back, open up your chest, and release tension in your neck and shoulders. Roll up to hands and knees to work your spine, stretch hamstrings, and challenge your balance. Come back to seated for feel-good stretches for your inner thighs, lower back, ankles, and feet. Slowly flow to standing to work your core, obliques, and calves. Spend a few breaths in Lunge 2, strengthening your quads, glutes, and hamstrings, before returning back down to your mat for the long hold and winddown. The Scriptures and meditations remind you that you are a beloved child of God and invite you to contemplate this incredible gift.
Excerpt from In Conversation with God, Francis Fernandez (Scepter Press)
De Profundis, The Norbertine Fathers of St. Michael's Abbey (stmichaelsabbey.com)
Functional movement is a term to describe exercises that help you perform everyday activities more easily. Join Jill in this 37 minute class as she works on multiple muscles groups in the lower body to be able to transition from the floor to standing with ease. She also emphasizes core strength and stability. Great for beginners but also some of the movements in the workout gets into more of an intermediate class. Just do what you can and enjoy! The meditation will have you focusing on the virtue of temperance to resist distractions.
Holy Family School of Faith, Rosary Meditation for July20, 2021, Temperance as Distraction from the goal. Used with permission.
Balance is such an essential part of functional fitness. If you are looking for a class that increases flexibility, joint stability, balance, and coordination, Better Balance is the one for you. It is quick yet packed with exercises that will work your core muscle, low back, legs, and best of all, balance. The meditation will have you focusing on Resting in the Lord.
Holy Family School of Faith, Rosary Meditation for December 15,2020, Benefits of Turning to Joseph. Used with permission.
The Nobertine Fathers of St. Michael's Abbey (www.stmichaelsabbey.com)
Join Rachel for this beginner total body workout that includes squats, Hands & knees with Leg lifts, bicep curls, triceps kickbacks, fire hydrants, and more. Have fun and forget you are even working out! Light weights are used, but feel free to use cans, water bottles, or nothing at all!
In this 34-minute, Gentle class, Betsy will help you learn how to engage your pelvic floor and strengthen it through a variety of different exercises. Your pelvic floor, the muscle between your pubic bone and sacrum, acts as a hammock to hold everything up. Your hammock may be stretched out through bearing down, pregnancy, and/or childbirth--and it likely needs a bit of strengthening. (One tell-tale sign of a weak pelvic floor is urine leakage from laughing, sneezing or coughing.) “Restore Your Pelvic Floor” begins on your back for deep breathing and gratefulness, followed by pelvic floor contractions as you move through leg extensions and half backbends. You will continue to strengthen your pelvic floor in hands and knees position and pike pose. After seated forward folds, twists, and modified side planks, you will relax into a reclined inner thigh stretch for the long hold and meditation. The prayers and meditation will encourage you to consider how you can love Jesus this Advent.
Holy Family School of Faith daily Rosary, Advent. November 27, 2020. Used with permission.
The Nobertine Fathers of St. Michael's Abbey (www.stmichaelsabbey.com)
Are you ready to feel relaxed and composed? Then Live from Home: Calm, Cool and Collected is for you! The music, along with Jill’s calming voice, will help you unwind while getting a good workout. The meditation focuses on the particular time of Holy Week.
Pope Francis, Palm Sunday homily, April 13, 2014.
The Nobertine Fathers of St. Michael's Abbey (www.stmichaelsabbey.com)
This 20-minute hip mobility and strength class can impact how you move throughout your day. Jill uses a block, but feel free to use a book or nothing at all. If you suffer from tight, weak hips, join us for Hip Fit and get back to doing the things you love. The prayers and meditation will have you focusing on how daily meditation helps us to say “yes” to God.
Holy Family School of Faith, Rosary Meditation for May 5, 2022, Letting Jesus Say ‘Yes” Through Us. Used with permission.
The Nobertine Fathers of St. Michael's Abbey (www.stmichaelsabbey.com)
Relaxing stretches and soothing music are two ways to prepare your body for sleep. Experience both in Unwind, a 35-minute Gentle class that helps you wind down after the day and promotes a great night's rest. Through a combination of deep breathing, putting yourself in God's presence, and relaxing moves that relieve tension in your entire body, you'll be counting sheep in no time. The Scriptures and meditations will remind you that God loves you—yes you—and is constantly longing for you to draw closer to him.
Clare Schiller, Foundation 3 Pietra Fitness Instructor
Music from Keys of Peace by Francesca LaRosa (www.francescalarosa.com), The Nobertine Fathers of St. Michael's Abbey (www.stmichaelsabbey.com)
Are you ready to dance, kick, and step? We are! Rachel will lead you in a 30 second work/20 second walk or jog. You will have fun as you do right and left rockstep, shuffle side zig zag, grapevine (woohoo!), heel taps plus front kick, and much more to get your heart rate up. Won’t you join us?
Give your legs a little love in this simple 34-minute class. After calming your mind and warming up your body with deep breathing and stretches that release tension in your head, neck, and shoulders, perform a series of calf raises, one-leg balance poses, and standing leg lifts. Take a quick break to stretch your sides and shoulders and open up your chest, and then move right into the main flow of the workout to stretch and strengthen your entire body. After repeating that flow three times on each side, transition to wide-leg posture for a forward fold and then heel-toe your feet in for a squat. Gracefully come down to the mat for more leg lifts and a quad stretch before pushing back to rock pose for the long hold. As you listen to the prayer for Day 4 of the Surrender Novena, allow the words to sink into your heart and encourage you to bring your worries to the Lord. Slowly move onto your back for a few wind-down stretches and one last twist, and then relax all your muscles as you turn your gaze to God during the resolution.
Surrender Novena Day 4
Surrender Novena, by Francesca LaRosa (www.francescalarosa.com), Missa in Aurora, by The Nobertine Fathers of St. Michael's Abbey (www.stmichaelsabbey.com)
A strong core is at the center of building and toning muscle all over your body which in turn helps you to move and feel great! This class was designed to strengthen the core muscles while improving posture. The meditation will have you contemplating Comfort in the midst of suffering with St. Paul as your guide.
Jocelyne DeGroot, Foundation 1 Pietra Fitness Instructor
The Nobertine Fathers of St. Michael's Abbey (www.stmichaelsabbey.com)
The hardest part of anything is getting started, so congratulations—you've made it to Day 2 of the Surrender Novena Series! You will begin this 40-minute class lying on your back, practicing deep breathing to calm your mind and nervous system. After a full body stretch, you'll fire up your core with a series of bicycle variations. Roll up to seated and bring your legs wide for side bends and twists to loosen up your back. Then it's right back to more core work with seated twists, swan dives, planks, rolling, a challenging lifted leg and more. After engaging your abs, glutes, and quads throughout the whole workout, sitting back into rock for the long hold will feel heavenly. The Scriptures, meditation, and Surrender Novena prayer will ease your worried thoughts and invite you to turn to Jesus throughout the day, allowing Him to take care of everything.
Surrender Novena Day 2
Surrender Novena, by Francesca LaRosa (www.francescalarosa.com), MISSA IN Die-Gradual, by The Nobertine Fathers of St. Michael's Abbey (www.stmichaelsabbey.com)
You don’t need to have hip problems to benefit from hip conditioning. This 28-minute class will help to stretch and strengthen these muscles to build flexibility and stability. The meditation will have you contemplating crushing pride with practicing the virtue of humility.
Rachel Shrader, good catholic, Your Guide to the 7 Deadly Sins – and the Virtues that Crush Them, https://www.goodcatholic.com/your-guide-to-the-seven-deadly-sins/
The Nobertine Fathers of St. Michael's Abbey (www.stmichaelsabbey.com)
Take care of yourself by having a day of recovery and restoration between your workouts with a class that gently stretches and strengthens the body. This class was designed to revitalize the nervous system, ease pain, and restore joint and muscle movement. The slower mellow pace makes it conducive to contemplate with Our Blessed Mother, the mysteries of light.
St. Pope John Paul II, Rosarium Virginis Mariae
The Nobertine Fathers of St. Michael's Abbey (www.stmichaelsabbey.com)
If you are looking to strengthen the core, build stability, or work on your posture, you will love this ballet-inspired class that focuses on the lower body. Like all Pietra Fitness classes, From Home: Ballet Circuit 1 begins with offering intentions and prayer. You’ll start the warmup with a sequence of leg exercises and wrap it up with an Intense Hamstring Stretch with a Revolved Angle Pose. The Circuit will take you through a dynamic and energizing workout. The workout begins with relevés, followed by plié on toes, planks while lifting the legs, pushup, clamshells, an Arabesque series, and then passés. You will repeat that circuit two more times picking up the speed. Not sure yet if you want to give it a try? You may want to think again! Regularly practicing this class will not only help improve your posture and strengthen the core, but it will also aid in weight loss, muscle definition, and increase your flexibility. You won’t need a tutu or ballet slippers but have a chair handy to act as your barre and a small ball or rolled-up towel.
Gregorian Chant by The Nobertine Fathers of St. Michael's Abbey (www.stmichaelsabbey.com)
Amanda will take you through a series of exercises that will strengthen your body, increase muscular endurance, and help you gain flexibility. You will come away feeling stronger and more refreshed. The meditation will have you thinking about combating sloth with diligence.
St. Rachel Shrader, Your Guide to the 7 Deadly Sins – and the Virtues that Crush Them, https://www.goodcatholic.com/your-guide-to-the-seven-deadly-sins/
The Nobertine Fathers of St. Michael's Abbey (www.stmichaelsabbey.com)
Are you ready to have some fun? Join Jhoe for this Gentle Cardio class that offers modified, low-impact moves while at the same time having fun. Jhoe also gives you the option to step it up as you get stronger cardiovascularly. Bring some water and a towel and let’s get started!
Rise and shine and give God your glory, glory! This 40-minute gentle class will guide you through poses on your back, seated, kneeling prone and supine. You will start class on your back and work up to seated to warm up the spine in all directions. In kneeling, you will work a little harder in Kneeling Leg Extension and then modified Side Plank with leg lifts. In prone you will strengthen the back with Chest Lifts, then back to seated for forward folds and hip stretches. The Scripture and meditations will help you to focus on the fact that the Holy Spirit is working as much in us today as in the apostles on the day of Pentecost.
Excerpt from In Conversation with God, Francis Fernandez (Scepter Press)
Breeze, Overcome, How Can I Keep from Singing, Praise, My Soul, The King of Heaven in Keys of Peace by Francesca LaRosa (www.francescalarosa.com), Offertory: Domine Jesu Christe by The Nobertine Fathers of St. Michael's Abbey (www.stmichaelsabbey.com)
Kudos to you for sticking with the Surrender Novena Series for five days in a row! You've worked hard—physically, mentally, and spiritually—to build strength and surrender yourself into God's loving arms. That's why Day 6 of this series is a slow, 31-minute workout that will help you mindfully move your body without overdoing it. As you focus on increasing flexibility and mobility in your neck, chest, shoulders, back, and hips, allow yourself to release any tension you may be holding in your body and relax your grip on the things in your life you desire to control. By the time you come to kneeling for the final prayer, you'll be ready to head into the rest of your day with more grace, mercy, and serenity.
Surrender Novena Day 6
Surrender Novena, by Francesca LaRosa (www.francescalarosa.com), Missa in Nocte-offertory, by The Nobertine Fathers of St. Michael's Abbey (www.stmichaelsabbey.com)
Making sure you engage in some kind of physical activity every day is so good for your overall health and well-being. In addition to the many physical benefits, exercise helps reduce stress—and so does praying the Surrender Novena, making this series an effective way to overcome your big and little struggles. The beautiful music, tension-relieving stretches, familiar postures, and encouraging meditations in the Surrender Novena Series Day 5 workout will calm your mind, energize your body, and lift your soul. Surrender everything to God as you roll, lunge, and move your way to peace.
Surrender Novena Day 5
Surrender, J'abandonne tout, Alles überlasse ich Jesus, by Francesca LaRosa (www.francescalarosa.com), Granual Requiem, by The Nobertine Fathers of St. Michael's Abbey (www.stmichaelsabbey.com)
This is a great beginner Total Body workout, using 30 seconds right – 30 seconds L with a cardio interval bursts throughout the workout! The combination of Curls to Press, Fire Hydrants, Hands and Knees Back Kicks, Jogging, Rows, Pushups, Reverse lunges, and Kneeling Balance Crunch with a 30 second Jump rope burn out at the end, will surely help you sweat out the stress and toxins!
Are you ready to get your heart rate up and gain some strength in this Beginner Cardio class? There will be 30 seconds of work and 30 seconds of walk or job. In the workout, you will have wall mountain climbers, ski/skater jumps, jump rope, squat crunches, and a 30 second speedbag, with a fun little 10 second surprise at the end!
God called us to be His own, not because of anything we do, but because of who we are: His beloved, His pearl of great price. God calls each one by name. You will have time to contemplate the fact that you are sacred and have been endowed with a particular mission that only you can fulfill as you gently strengthen your body, mind, and soul. Lori works the whole body but focuses on strengthening and stabilizing the muscles used to help maintain good posture.
Catechism of the Catholic Church, 2158 – 2159. Pope Francis, Gaudete Et Exsultate, On the Call to Holiness in Today’s World, 13
The Nobertine Fathers of St. Michael's Abbey (www.stmichaelsabbey.com)
Sitting at a desk, in front of a computer, or in the car for extended periods of time day after day can cause the muscles and tendons in your back and hips to become tight and sore. Sedentary Rx is a soothing remedy. By targeting these tense areas, this 42-minute workout will not only open up your back, neck, shoulders, chest, hips, and inner thighs but also make them stronger. The Scriptures and meditations on St. Joseph, Jesus' earthly father, invite you to reflect on ways that you can imitate St. Joseph's great faith, courage, and humility in your own life.
Excerpt from In Conversation with God, Francis Fernandez (Scepter Press)
Your body should be feeling good and ready to move after yesterday's easier Day 6 workout. Begin this 34-minute class lying on your back, practicing deep belly breathing, focusing on gratitude, and calling to mind your intentions for this novena. When you're ready, warm up with a full-body stretch before rolling up to seated to stretch your triceps, sides, and back. Briefly come to hands and knees and then transition to pike, pedaling your feet to loosen up the backside of your body. Flow into low lunge and shift your weight back to stretch your hamstring before coming to plank elevated chest lift on toes. Briefly work on your balance and open up your hip with a quad stretch, and then move right into your second flow: low lunge with a twist, high lunge with pulses, and a plank. Open up your hips with knee stack, making modifications if necessary, and then extend your legs in seated engaged for the long hold. The Scriptures, prayers, and meditations throughout this workout will remind you that Jesus still performs miracles today and invite you to ask God for help with whatever is troubling you.
Surrender Novena Day 7
Surrender, J'abandonne tout, Alles überlasse ich Jesus, by Francesca LaRosa (www.francescalarosa.com), Missa in Die-Introit, by The Nobertine Fathers of St. Michael's Abbey (www.stmichaelsabbey.com)
Athletes place a high amount of stress on their bodies to compete in sports so they should prepare and be ready! Warming up is a crucial part of preparation. This 17-minute general warmup can be used before any sport or activity. Lori takes you through dynamic exercises that increases the temperature of the muscles, increases the heart rate, and sends blood flow to the working muscles. The movements will also enhance the neuromuscular relationship between the muscles in the body and the nerves, which will help athletes to be in better control of their movements and functions.
Exercise is one of the best things you can do for your long-term spine health and maintain healthy, pain-free mobility. Keeping your spine in good condition will allow you to move in comfort now and as you age. In this 30-minute class, Jill will move your spine in all planes of movement, focusing on the core, spinal extension, flexion, and rotation. The meditation will have you contemplating "Reliance on God". Jill dedicated this class to her mother, Marsha Kuhlman, who passed away two days before taping. May her soul rest in peace.
Holy Family School of Faith, Rosary Meditation for February 12, 2022, Reliance on God. Used with permission.
The Nobertine Fathers of St. Michael's Abbey (www.stmichaelsabbey.com)
Building upon the postures and prayers of the first two workouts in the Surrender Novena Series, this 43-minute class picks up the pace, challenges your balance, and takes you deeper—physically, mentally, and spiritually. After calming your mind and nervous system with deep breathing and warming up all your joints, you will move right into three dynamic flows that get your heart pumping and incorporate lunges, planks, elevated chest lifts, squats, and more. Then come to posture pose and work on your balance to fire up your glutes and quads. As you round forward in inner thigh stretch for the long hold, allow the words of the Surrender Novena prayer to fill your entire being and fill you with tranquility. The Scriptures throughout the workout will help you open your heart to God, and the meditation during the final resting pose invites you to do something today—such as surrendering everything to Jesus—to show your love for Him.
Surrender Novena Day 3
Surrender, J'abandonne tout, Alles überlasse ich Jesus, by Francesca LaRosa (www.francescalarosa.com), Anima mea-Antiphon, by The Nobertine Fathers of St. Michael's Abbey (www.stmichaelsabbey.com)
Core stability is crucial for balance. Join Jill in this 27-minute class as she leads you through functional and multiplanar core exercises that will prepare you for the balance moves throughout the video. As your core continues to strengthen, you will start to see improvement in your balance. The meditation will have you focusing on surrendering everything to the Sacred Heart of Jesus.
Holy Family School of Faith, Rosary Meditation for June 6, 2021, Corpus Christi. Used with permission.
The Nobertine Fathers of St. Michael's Abbey (www.stmichaelsabbey.com)
Check out this gentle, low impact glutes and legs workout that is great for beginners. Robin uses a chair for balance, but you can use a wall or nothing at all. Blocks are optional.
Stretch the sides of your body and strengthen your back with the second to last workout of the Surrender Novena Series. You will begin this 37-minute Level 1 class in a comfortable cross-legged seated position, focusing on your breath, thoughts of gratitude, and placing yourself in God's presence. Warm-up with a series of stretches, bends, and safe twists that loosen any tightness or tension you may holding in your neck, shoulders, hips, and lower back. In the workout portion of the class, you can look forward to a standing backbend, low lunges, a full squat, calf raises, head and chest lifts, and other dynamic moves to hit every major muscle group in your body. Rest in rock pose for the long hold and work your core before winding down and lying back in quiet pose for the Resolution portion of the class. The Scriptures, prayers, and meditations remind you that God is good and trustworthy and invite you to ask for His help and consolation.
Surrender Novena Day 8
Surrender, J'abandonne tout, Alles überlasse ich Jesus, by Francesca LaRosa (www.francescalarosa.com), Qui sunt isti-Responsory, by The Nobertine Fathers of St. Michael's Abbey (www.stmichaelsabbey.com)
If you would like to improve your health and fitness while relaxing your mind and body to combat stress, Live from Home: Dual Benefits is the class for you. This 25 min. slower-paced class will not only work all of your major muscle groups, but it will also help to calm your nervous system, all while reflecting on prayer and daily meditation.
Holy Family School of Faith, Rosary Meditation for March 6, 2021, The National Park of the Soul. Used with permission. Apostles of the Interior Life. www.apostlesofil.org
The Nobertine Fathers of St. Michael's Abbey (www.stmichaelsabbey.com)
This 11-min core class is designed to strengthen the muscles of the lower abdominals, upper abdominals, obliques, and back with non-stop core boosting moves and a plank challenge at the end. Use this as a stand-alone workout or as a great addition to other workouts.
This class, when done consistently, will give you that strong core you’ve always wanted. Using a variety of different exercises, Jill works your core using upper and lower abs, oblique muscles, and the pelvic floor and back. Of course, always ending with a stretch. The meditation will have you focus on selfless and sacrificial charity, ready to help others as you leave the class.
Holy Family School of Faith, Daily Rosary podcast, Charity, May 10, 2021. Used with permission.
The Nobertine Fathers of St. Michael's Abbey (www.stmichaelsabbey.com)
We are always bending forward or twisting in everyday life, but rarely do we side bend unless we are in a Pietra Fitness class! Side bends lengthen the trunk muscles, as well as hips, and thigh muscles, while keeping the spine supple. Side bends are also known to help you breathe more deeply. For all these reasons, you are going to want to do this class! Jill uses a block, but feel free to use a book, bolster, pillow, or nothing at all. The prayers and meditation will have you contemplating gratitude.
Excerpt from In Conversation with God, Francis Fernandez (Scepter Press)
The Nobertine Fathers of St. Michael's Abbey (www.stmichaelsabbey.com)
Congratulations on making it to the last workout in the Surrender Novena Series. If there is anything that you are still holding on to—any worries or anxieties, physical stress—place it at Jesus' feet and resolve to let it go by the end of this 45-minute class. As stated in today's prayer, "There is no novena more effective than this." You will begin this Level 1 workout in a comfortable cross-legged seated position, calming your mind and nervous system with deep breathing and thoughts of gratitude. Take a few minutes to warm up your body by easing into stretches and twists that loosen your neck and shoulders, open up your chest, and feel good on your back. Transition to standing for the first flow, which will work your shoulders, arms, back, core, and glutes. Follow that up with lunges and a challenging balance series to strengthen all the muscles in your legs before coming to seated to fire up your abs. As you lie back in reclined inner thigh stretch for the long hold, the words of novena prayer will wash away your fears and fill you with hope. Courageously carry this hope with you for the rest of the day—and your life—and resolve to turn to Jesus whenever you're feeling anxious, saying, "O Jesus, I surrender myself to you, take care of everything."
The Surrender Novena Day 9
Surrender Novena, by Francesca LaRosa (www.francescalarosa.com), Cantemus, by The Nobertine Fathers of St. Michael's Abbey (www.stmichaelsabbey.com)
Give your spine a treat with Back Resiliency. This 42-minute class fires up the entire core to help stabilize and protect the spine, and incorporates twists that help you develop flexibility and resiliency in the spine while increasing range of motion. You will leave feeling energized and ready to take on your day. The meditation will have you thinking about marriage as a sacred bond.
Excerpt from In Conversation with God, Francis Fernandez (Scepter Press); Guadium et Spes (Joy and Hope, the Pastoral Constitution on the Church in the Modern World) 48; Blessed Pope Paul VI, Humanae Vitae; Pope Benedict XVI, Deus Caritas Est
The Nobertine Fathers of St. Michael's Abbey (www.stmichaelsabbey.com)
Contemplate how you can live your life more closely ordered to what is truly a priority as you gently move your body and work every major muscle group. After warming up, you will work through a Low Lunge series, Arching and Rounding, Kneeling Balance, Seated stretches, and more before winding down in prayer.
Leah Joy Taylor, Inner Resources for Leaders, Psalm 90: The Search for Significance, https://www.regent.edu/journal/inner-resources-for-leaders/psalm-90-search-for-significance/
The Nobertine Fathers of St. Michael's Abbey (www.stmichaelsabbey.com)
Learning how to correctly hinge at the hips is a skill that is perfected with practice; and you will get plenty of that in this short 11 minute class. You will work on the posterior chain (backside), mainly the glutes, hamstrings, and low back, as well as the core. But Lori has masterfully created a routine that will also give you a great shoulder and upper back workout. Well worth the 11 minutes!!
Everyone wants to have toned, shapely shoulders and upper back for summer, right? Look no further! Jill doesn’t use weights for this gentle class, but you can make it an intermediate one with the addition of light weights. She suggests 1 lb to start and no more than 3-5 lbs because of the work on the small muscles around the shoulders. The meditation focuses on beginning again when you fall.
Holy Family School of Faith, Daily Rosary Podcast, I’ve Fallen and Can Get up, 2022.Used with permission.
The Nobertine Fathers of St. Michael's Abbey (www.stmichaelsabbey.com)
Watch “Back Resistance Introduction” before doing one of the back resistance classes for the first time. As you become comfortable with it, you can try “Back Resistance Intermediate. You can always modify the class by adding more weight or decreasing the weight you use. You will need a barbell, body bar, or hand weights.
There is a saying, “it is not how hard you train, but how well you recover.” Recovery days don’t have to be spent vegging in front of the TV but can be used to promote restoration and repair. Join this restorative class that encourages muscle repair and relaxation. You will have given your body time to replenish, and Jhoe will help you find muscles you didn’t know you had! She uses blocks and a strap but you can use books and a towel, or nothing at all. The calming music will help you to focus on St. Joseph and your intentions for the last day of the novena.
Pope John Paul II, Redemptoris Custos
The Nobertine Fathers of St. Michael's Abbey (www.stmichaelsabbey.com)
Are you feeling anxious? Does your body feel tense? The soothing music, calming stretches, and encouraging meditations in Live! from Home: Release will melt your stress away. You'll begin this 38-minute Gentle workout lying on your back, focusing on your breath and the many blessings in your life. Slowly move into inner thigh stretch before rocking and rolling over any sore spots in your back and extending your arms and legs for a feel-good full-body stretch. Engage your core to roll up to a cross-legged seated position to warm up your back, sides, and chest. Come to hands and knees for arch and round and then reach one leg back at a time to stretch your hamstring and the front of each leg. You'll then perform a series of postures and exercises to stretch your sides, back, chest, inner thighs, hamstrings, and hips. As you lie back in reclined inner thigh stretch for the long hold, the Scriptures and meditations remind you to not be afraid and invite you to surrender yourself to Jesus and open your heart even more to Him.
Holy Family School of Faith, Daily Rosary Podcast for July 16, 2020.
The Nobertine Fathers of St. Michael's Abbey (www.stmichaelsabbey.com)
Are you looking for a killer core workout that is safe for people who struggle with abdominal separation (also known as diastasis recti)? This ballet-inspired class is for you! In From Home: Ballet Circuit 2, Courtney (a professional ballerina) will take you through a series of dynamic moves that will strengthen and stretch your abdominals and back, including toe touches, Russians twists, elevated chest lift, side plank, and more. And just when you think you've completed the last rep, you'll start the circuit again from the top—twice. By the time you finish this 23-minute class, you'll be standing taller, feeling toner . . . and probably be a little out of breath. No tutu, ballet slippers, or prior ballet experience necessary.
The Nobertine Fathers of St. Michael's Abbey (www.stmichaelsabbey.com)
Join Jill in this brisk, 24-minute, level 1 class that makes old moves feel new with different variations and sequences. You may experience new ways to gain strength on your hands and knees when you follow along with Jill’s variations. Alternating back extension, pike, angle, airplane, and revolved angle will give your whole body a good workout. As you relax in a reclined inner thigh stretch, you will hear a meditation prompting you to consider whether your soul is a house of prayer or a marketplace.
Fr. Ben O’Cinnsealaigh, Pastor of Our Lady of Victory Parish, Cincinnati, OH, based on his column for the week of March 7, 2021.
The Nobertine Fathers of St. Michael's Abbey (www.stmichaelsabbey.com)
Are you ready to sweat and feel the burn with this Total Body bodyweight strength class? Incorporating strength and cardio gets your heart rate up for a total calorie burner. You will be doing Curls, Fire Hydrants, Sprints, Chest Presses, Deadlifts, Rows, Lunges and Planks!
Live! from Home: Habit Forming is a 32-minute gentle class that is all on the mat (no standing postures). The stringed instrumental music will help you ease into the class as you begin deep breathing in the supine position. As you consider the blessings you are grateful for today, Betsy will help you remember the blessing of God’s love for you right where you are today. After warming up through various stretches in cross-legged seated position and hands and knees position, you will move into the gentle workout. You will strengthen your back muscles through an ab balance with scissors, your quads and abdominals with a kneeling quad exercise, and your thighs in low lunge. You will stretch your thighs, groins, and psoas as well as the surrounding connective tissue as you stay in hip-release for the long-hold. The Scripture and meditation today will encourage you to practice daily meditative prayer, even if you don’t feel that you have great inspirations--the simple act of spending time with God is worthwhile--your friendship with God will grow, and God will do His work in you, sometimes without your noticing.
Holy Family School of Faith, Rosary Meditation for December 17, 2020, I Feel Like I am not Praying Right. Used with permission.
The Nobertine Fathers of St. Michael's Abbey (www.stmichaelsabbey.com)
Get to know your body better! This class focuses on feeling the stretch in each of the moves. It will improve your posture and balance and help you pay attention to what muscles you are using in each exercise. This means less risk of injury! The meditation will have you thinking about our Lord’s Life-Giving and Healing Power.
Fr. Ben O’Cinnsealaigh, Pastor of Our Lady of Victory Parish, Cincinnati, OH, based on his column for the week of June 27, 2021.
The Nobertine Fathers of St. Michael's Abbey (www.stmichaelsabbey.com)
Are you ready to focus on strengthening and toning your trunk? You can use this workout by itself, or you can use it in addition to our other routines for additional core work. Rachel begins with plank which provides an effective warm-up plus it works all the major core muscles as well. She then moves into reverse plank, side crunches, slow mountain climbers, forearm planks, and more! What are you waiting for?
Reflect on the “Big Picture” of what’s most important in your heart, your life, and your home, all from an eternal perspective as you gently move your body and work every major muscle group. Jhoe will move you through Forearm Chest Lifts, Supermans, abdominal work, and more before you wind down in prayer.
Holy Family School of Faith, Treasure in Heaven, September 19, 2021. Used with permission.
The Nobertine Fathers of St. Michael's Abbey (www.stmichaelsabbey.com)
From the time you get out of bed in the morning until you get back for the night, there isn’t a minute you are not using your core. It’s important to build core strength for better ease in everyday movement. Join Jill for this gentle, joyful workout with creative core exercises that work your entire body. The meditation will have you contemplating Psalm 61.
Excerpt from Sarah Christmyer, Lord Make Haste to Help Me
The Nobertine Fathers of St. Michael's Abbey (www.stmichaelsabbey.com)
Would you like to stand taller, move better, and have greater flexibility and range of motion? If the answer is yes, then Live for Advent: Fix your Posture is for you! The exercises Jill does in the video will help your body move in a way that is smarter and more efficient. She uses a foam roller, but you can use a rolled towel instead. The meditation will have you contemplating God’s Glory during this wonderful Advent season.
Holy Family School of Faith, Rosary Meditation for August 11, 2020, On Beauty. Used with permission.
The Nobertine Fathers of St. Michael's Abbey (www.stmichaelsabbey.com)
Are you looking for a class that will help to improve your strength, balance, and stability? Then this is the class for you. Amanda incorporates exercises that will not only challenge your balance but will build muscle strength. The meditation will have you thinking about crushing gluttony with temperance.
St. Rachel Shrader, Your Guide to the 7 Deadly Sins – and the Virtues that Crush Them, https://www.goodcatholic.com/your-guide-to-the-seven-deadly-sins/
Holy Family School of Faith, Rosary Meditation for May 26, 2022, Temperance. Used with permission.
The Nobertine Fathers of St. Michael's Abbey (www.stmichaelsabbey.com)
The focus of Peaceful & Prayerful is to calm the nervous system. When we slow down, stopping to smell the roses, our body, mind, and soul become integrated in the present moment. This allows us to be mindful of God's presence and His blessings. Jessica, with her tranquil voice and demeanor, will lead you through seated, kneeling, prone and supine poses with movements that are slow and intentional. The breath remains calm and serene. The Scripture and meditations will help you to focus on the many blessings God has given you, and you will finish class feeling reposed and at peace.
A Soldier's Prayer
Dum transisset, Chris Mueller (www.benesonarium.com) for mp3s: https://arsmueller.hearnow.com/. for cds: http://www.benesonarium.com/ars-mueller/
This class was carefully designed to help you engage multiple muscle groups so that you can not only safely move with ease but also to help you trim the midsection. Join Amanda as she takes you through donkey kicks, fire hydrants, twists, flows, bicycles, leg lifts, and more. The meditation will have you pondering St. John the Baptist as prophet and hero.
Fr. Benedict O’Cinnsealaigh, Pastor Mary, Queen of all Saints, Bulletin December 4, 2022. Used with permission.
The Nobertine Fathers of St. Michael's Abbey (www.stmichaelsabbey.com)
Stretching keeps the muscles flexible and healthy. This is so needed in order to maintain a range of motion in the joints. If you only strengthen the muscles, they will shorten and become tight, which if not stretched out, can put you at risk for joint pain, strains, and muscle damage. Jhoe takes you through a class that stretches the entire body while relaxing and refreshing the nervous system. She does throw in a curve ball with doing the splits, but she gives you a different option if you do not want to do splits. The meditation will have you contemplating Mary and the Annunciation.
Holy Family School of Faith Daily Rosary, The Annunciation. April 8, 2024. Used with permission
The Nobertine Fathers of St. Michael's Abbey (www.stmichaelsabbey.com)
Whether you enjoy Gentle, Level 1, or Level II Pietra Fitness classes, Advent: Peace 101 can benefit you, especially if you are familiar with ways to modify poses for your body. This balanced 30-minute class will have you constantly flowing through the strengthening exercises and poses, building heat and hitting every major muscle group. Since the Scriptures and meditations invite you to reflect on filling your heart with peace during Advent, this is a great workout to do in the weeks leading up to Christmas—or anytime you want to foster more peace in your life.
Excerpt from In Conversation with God, Francis Fernandez (Scepter Press)
It’s not easy to find rest in this busy time of year, but it is so needed. Take some time to unwind and rest in the Lord in this 35 minute Gentle class. Jill will take you through a series of exercises that are meant to stretch and release tension in those hard to reach places. The meditation will have you focusing on God’s Love. What a perfect combination!
Holy Family School of Faith, 30 Days to Deeper Prayer, Advent Volume, Day 23. Used with permission.
The Nobertine Fathers of St. Michael's Abbey (www.stmichaelsabbey.com)
Proper form and alignment can be the difference between an okay workout and an excellent workout, or between an injury and a strong, healthy body. That's why we started our Back to Basics classes—to teach you proper form and alignment for fundamental Pietra Fitness postures. With cues and tips and reminders as to which muscles you are working, Betsy will guide you through this 38-minute Gentle workout, helping you perfect posture pose and high lunge. And that's not all. Calf raises, heel walks, and other exercises will challenge your balance and engage all your muscles. Light twists, bends, and folds will gently stretch your body, helping you sit and stand taller. The Scriptures and meditations will open your eyes to God's incredible love for you and invite you to allow Him into your heart even more.Whether you're new to Pietra Fitness or you've been doing Pietra Fitness for a while, you can benefit from our Back to Basic classes. Look for more of these workouts in our online studio or join us live on Friday.
Clare Schiller, Foundation 3 Pietra Fitness Instructor
Music from Keys of Peace by Francesca LaRosa (www.francescalarosa.com), The Nobertine Fathers of St. Michael's Abbey (www.stmichaelsabbey.com)
This lower body and core strength advanced workout includes various exercises that target the legs, hips, glutes, abs, and back. The slower intentional movements, longer holds on the poses, and core moves will challenge balance, stability, stamina, and strength. You will use your own body weight as resistance to build long, lean muscles! You will leave the class feeling challenged and motivated. The prayers and meditation focus on the Beatitude, Blessed are the Poor in Spirit.
Holy Family School of Faith, Rosary Meditation for February 14,2022, Blessed are the Poor in Spirit. Used with permission.
The Nobertine Fathers of St. Michael's Abbey (www.stmichaelsabbey.com)